Why compare between 2 cars (Lancer itlog and Lancer EX) which are more than 10 years apart? And why even compare Altis 02 to Lancer 95, Mitsubishi has gone leaps and bounds since then. Dont get me wrong and i agree on most part of what u said, we have a Lancer 94 GLXi and i admit the A/T was troublesome and had to replace with a surplus one.
But comparing it to a much newer car, it doesn't give justice to the newer one.

My Vote goes to Lancer EX, new on everything! designs, engine, suspension.

the Altis 09 and 02, in my view is the same, Same engine (i think its the still VVTi), same stance, almost same design with previous. One thing new is the 5-spoke wheel. People generally buy this for Toyota reliability and availibility. Which i must is very true..